The Nearness Of You- In Loving Memory Of Jim Rotondi
Pacific Coast Jazz, 2025
9/10
Listen to The Nearness Of You- In Loving Memory Of Jim Rotondi
The jazz vocalist Lili Maljic pays tribute to the memory of Jim Rotondi with these 10 well thought out interpretations.
Rotondi’s rich trumpet opens the cozy spirit of “The Shadow Of Your Smile”, as Maljic’s crystal clear voice hits some really high notes, and “The Song Is You” follows with quick singing and Mario Gonzi’s playful drumming.
The title track arrives at the halfway point and showcases Milos Colovic’s meticulous bass plucking amid expressive scatting, while “Never Let Me Go” offers a heartfelt moment of romantic songwriting via the soulful vocals and Oliver Kent’s mature piano.
Close to the end, Rotondi’s touching horn aligns with frisky bass and emotive singing across “I Didn’t Know About You”, and “That Old Black Magic” exits with a charming intimacy thanks to Maljic’s touching presence and the cozy keys.
An excellent and timeless debut that can swing, take a dip into bossa nova and radiate balladry, Rotondi passed away shortly after the recording, and just like everything he touched, his contributions to the record are inestimable.
Travels well with: Jim Rotondi- Finesse; Bonnie J Jensen- Rise